Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in West Town

Fun activities

Activities that are genuinely engaging instead of just another way to kill time on a weekend.

Based on 616 Opinions
+613
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club image 1
Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club image 2
Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club image 3
View all

Indoor and rooftop spaces combine shuffleboard courts with food trucks and cabana-style seating. Music plays loudly throughout, creating a laid-back club vibe that suits groups hanging out or playing games. Bright decor and a rooftop view add to the unique atmosphere.

Playing shuffleboard offers a lot of fun, especially for first-timers. The spot has a great vibe and friendly staff who make the night enjoyable and lively.

Unique atmosphere and the ability for food trucks to pull into a side entryway create a cool vibe. The place is huge with a cool menu and location.

People are saying

"It's a fun spot to hang out and play shuffleboard."

"The food trucks here are a fun way to spend an evening."

"It's a pretty cool spot with a fun atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Shuffleboard costs $29 per lane on Sundays.

2

Reservations are recommended for busy times, especially for groups of four or more.

3

Happy hour runs all day on Sundays with great specials.

02
Standing Passengers image 1

Coffee shop combines retro video games and 90s nostalgia with specialty coffee in a cozy, fun space. Free access to classic gaming consoles like SNES and N64 creates a relaxed, playful atmosphere. Seating mixes tables and couches, supporting both work and socializing.

Retro gaming systems and neon lights create a vibe like childhood sleepovers. Seasonal lattes add a fun twist to the experience.

A super cool vibe fills the space, blending a video game theme with a relaxed atmosphere. Staff play Limp Bizkit back to back, adding to the unique energy while you enjoy coffee or sandwiches.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great coffee and seasonal lattes."

"I found the coffee shop's vibe to be super cool and chill."

"The retro gaming systems here are a blast from the past!"

Good to know

1

The coffee shop does not accept cash, only cards.

2

They serve breakfast tacos and sandwiches alongside coffee.

3

The patio offers additional seating when the inside is crowded.

03
Shabu Plus Rotary Hot Pot Wicker Park image 1

Rotary hot pot setup features individual pots and food delivered by mini trains and conveyor belts, creating an interactive dining experience. Atmosphere blends anime and manga decor with a warm, fun vibe suitable for groups and families. Guests engage with a DIY sauce bar and enjoy a variety of fresh ingredients at their own pace.

Rotary hot pot offers a fun and interactive dining experience with an innovative concept that keeps things engaging. The rotating setup adds a unique touch to the meal.

Anime and manga images cover the walls, creating a super cool anime vibe. The atmosphere feels unique and fun, making the eating experience stand out.

People are saying

"The food delivery via train and conveyor belt is so fun!"

"It's so fun watching the cute little trains and trucks deliver food!"

"The anime vibe here is super cool and adds to the fun atmosphere."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers 90 minutes of all-you-can-eat hot pot.

2

Expect a 45-minute seating limit for dining.

3

The all-you-can-eat experience costs $25.00 per person.

04
Sushi by Scratch Restaurants: Chicago image 1

Hidden behind a secret coded door in a speakeasy setting, the space offers an intimate dining bar where guests interact closely with chefs. The atmosphere blends moody, cozy vibes with bursts of energetic engagement, creating a unique omakase experience. Seating is limited to small groups, enhancing the personal and exclusive feel.

Engagement turns the meal into a fun, immersive journey with a secret coded door and back exit adding to the experience. Chefs create a great, intimate, and fun atmosphere throughout.

Entering through a bar creates a speakeasy vibe that feels intimate and unique. Chefs are engaging and the whole environment feels cool and different.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is a carefully crafted omakase journey."

"The chefs made the meal a fun, immersive journey with their stories."

"It's so cool getting into this place through a secret entrance."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to access the restaurant, with a code sent after booking.

2

Expect to pay around $200 per person, including tips, for the omakase experience.

3

The restaurant has a speakeasy entrance through a black door with a numbered lock.

05
Golden Years image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar with a retro/vinyl records theme and 70โ€™s music creates a nostalgic energy. Atmosphere stays cozy and intimate while maintaining a lively but chill vibe. Unique cocktails like highballs and tiki drinks complement satisfying food options such as burgers and onion rings.

Pop-up events and parties create a lively atmosphere. The cocktail menu offers fun and tasty drinks, and ordering shots comes with polaroid pictures for extra amusement.

A cool cocktail lounge atmosphere sets the tone with unique cocktails and a Polaroid camera photo you can keep or add to the wall. Fantastic music adds to the overall cool vibe.

People are saying

"Their cocktails are unique, creative, and perfectly executed."

"I heard great things about the burger; it rocked my world."

"The cocktail menu here is really creative and tasty."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers classic cocktails and a $10 burger with fries.

2

Parking is free and readily available on Sundays.

3

The venue has plenty of seating for both small and large groups.

06
District Brew Yards image 1

Open-layout brewpub with self-serve beer taps and cashless system creates a casual, interactive atmosphere. Spacious indoor and dog-friendly outdoor seating accommodate groups and encourage relaxed socializing. Board games and a variety of beers from multiple breweries add to the laid-back, fun vibe.

A self-pour system lets people sample many drinks easily, making tasting interactive and fun. Trivia nights add an inviting vibe, and the spot works well for big groups looking to hang out in a laid-back setting.

A spacious patio and the ability to pour your own beer create a unique vibe. Sampling from four different Chicago breweries adds to the cool experience.

People are saying

"You can pour your own beer and try a ton of options."

"It's a fun, interactive spot to sample a wide variety of beers."

"It's a cool spot to chill and taste some nice brews."

Good to know

1

Trivia night occurs every Wednesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

The venue offers an all-you-can-eat and drink deal during special events.

3

Guests can pour their own beer from multiple breweries at their own pace.

07
Lemon image 1

Bar combines live music with an upscale cocktail lounge vibe in a cozy, low-light setting. Space includes multiple seating areas and a patio, creating a relaxed yet lively atmosphere. Music volume balances well for both listening and conversation.

Varied live music sets a lively tone while fun cocktails add to the upbeat vibe. Great spot for hanging out with friends or a date night.

Pop-up events bring a cool vibe to the spot. Live music plays softly, adding to the atmosphere without overpowering. An outdoor patio offers a relaxed, tucked-away space for drinks.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are thoughtful, creative, and perfectly balanced."

"The drinks here are thoughtfully crafted and full of flavor."

"The staff here is so friendly, it makes for a really nice environment."

Good to know

1

Live music performances occur from Thursday to Saturday, featuring various bands.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with $5 shots and beers.

3

Bingo night is hosted every Wednesday at 8pm with a small entry fee.

08
THC by Chitiva Wicker Park Bucktown image 1

Cannabis store combines beautiful interior with board games and TVs for a chill, fun atmosphere. Music plays softly, creating a relaxing vibe where people gather to enjoy pre-rolls and edibles. The space feels cozy and vibrant, inviting visitors to linger and socialize.

A chill and fun atmosphere sets the tone with lots of games to enjoy with friends. Karaoke nights add a relaxed vibe making it a fun spot to hang out for a while.

Super cool drinks set the tone in a lounge with a very cool ambiance and friendly staff. The whole vibe feels like a hidden gem with a unique concept.

People are saying

"It's a really chill place to unwind and relax."

"The karaoke night here is so fun and chill."

"I found the vibes here to be super cool and dope."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night is every Thursday, starting at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

2

A "puff and paint" class is offered on Wednesdays, providing a creative experience.

3

ID is required for entry and to create an account before purchasing.

09
The Wormhole Coffee image 1

Coffee shop with nostalgic 80s theme and Star Wars memorabilia creates a unique, nerdy vibe. Spacious seating supports teleworking and socializing, while retro games and a DeLorean car add distinctive charm. Atmosphere feels lively and cool, attracting steady crowds throughout the day.

Unique 80โ€™s vibe with an iconic life-size Back to the Future DeLorean on display. Fun drinks, old Apple computer, and movie posters add to the nostalgic atmosphere.

Pop culture influences shape the space with old school movies, video games, and niche posters. The atmosphere feels spacious and welcoming, filled with cool memorabilia and spots to hang out.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was the best I'd ever had."

"The retro vibe here is so cool, with a DeLorean and 80s movie posters."

"It's a fun spot with the iconic life-size DeLorean replica."

Good to know

1

They only accept cash as a form of payment.

2

Expect long wait times, especially on weekends and busy hours.

3

Finding parking nearby can be very difficult.

10
Desert Hawk image 1

Desert-themed bar with an extensive tequila and mezcal selection offers an intimate, cozy atmosphere with outdoor patio seating and a pool table. Music features LCD Soundsystem and Talking Heads, creating a vibey, low-key backdrop. The crowd is eclectic and friendly, making it suitable for casual drinks or a relaxed night out.

Karaoke Wednesdays bring a lively crowd and fun atmosphere. The spot blends cozy bar vibes with great food for a good time.

Interior draws from the desert, creating a very relaxed and cool vibe. Seating includes intimate booths and larger tables, adding to the chill atmosphere.

People are saying

"The smash jibaritos here are amazing and flavorful."

"It's a cool, chill place with a relaxed vibe."

"The karaoke nights here are a blast with a really supportive crowd."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens every Wednesday with a fun crowd and great vibes.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with good drink deals.

3

Reservations are not required but recommended for karaoke nights.

11
Elston Electric image 1
Video arcade

Multi-use space combines retro arcade games, pinball machines, and a sunken bar with loud music creating a laid-back yet energetic vibe. Variety of classic and unique games attract groups, families, and pinball lovers. Spacious layout includes outdoor seating and shops, making it a lively spot before or after shows.

Unique arcade games and a curated prize collection create a lively spot for fun. Drinks include creative shots and solid pizza to complement the playful atmosphere.

Retro ambiance with a sunken bar and very comfy bar seats sets a chill vibe. Animatronics of the Biscuits add a unique touch, and the space feels spectacular for playing games or taking a break.

People are saying

"It's a cool bar to take a break from the game room."

"It's so cool how they have a mix of classic and new arcade games."

"It's an amazing arcade with a huge collection of games for family fun."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but check social media for event closures.

2

A single game of pinball costs 5 credits, which can be loaded onto a reusable card.

3

The venue is popular for pre-gaming before concerts at the nearby Salt Shed.

12
Izakaya Shinya image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Izakaya-style restaurant offers authentic Japanese decor with traditional seating and moody lighting. The atmosphere stays cozy and lively, featuring karaoke that energizes the space late into the night. Guests enjoy grilling at the table and a varied sake and cocktail selection.

A lively atmosphere fills the inside with karaoke nights on Fridays and Saturdays. Drinks and singing create a very fun vibe that lasts late into the night.

A cool vibe fills the space with a cozy atmosphere that feels inviting and relaxed.

People are saying

"The food here felt like being back in Japan."

"Karaoke nights here are so much fun and the vibe is super chill."

"The food here is great, especially the char on the skewers."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Friday and Saturday night, starting at 9pm.

2

Happy hour offers $7 drinks, but only for the first drink.

3

The restaurant is open until 2 AM, perfect for late-night dining.

13
City Pool Hall & Sports Bar image 1

Pool hall offers 12 well-maintained tables including 9-foot tables in a laid back, friendly atmosphere with fantastic music. Space feels old school Chicago billiards with a no frills environment and a backyard smoking area. It gets crowded but maintains a hometown vibe with a mix of quiet and lively energy.

Playing pool and darts offers a fun way to hang out with friends. Friendly staff add to the lively atmosphere, and several additional games keep the energy up.

A pool hall combined with a sports bar creates a laid-back vibe. It stands out as a cool spot to hang out and shoot pool away from typical city scenes.

People are saying

"The food here is pretty damn good."

"I had a fun time playing pool and pop-a-shot here."

"It's a cool spot to hang out with respectful people."

Good to know

1

Pool tables cost $14 per hour for one person, $18 for two, and $21 for three or more.

2

Expect to wait for a table on busy nights, especially league nights.

3

Parking includes metered and free spaces, with about 20 spots available in front.

14
Barnes & Noble image 1
Book store

Store occupies a historic bank building with stunning architecture and a masterpiece ceiling. Atmosphere feels cramped and busy, with narrow aisles crowded by people, strollers, and dogs. Seating is minimal, lacking cozy areas, but a cafe offers a spot to sit with a drink and book.

Many fun books and toys make it a great spot for kids. It offers a simple way to spend free time.

Spacious building offers a cool vibe to relax and get lost in books. The store feels like a great spot to cool off and enjoy a quiet moment.

People are saying

"This reading spot in the old bank building is a masterpiece."

"The building itself is super cool and spacious."

"The architecture here is stunning, it's beautiful."

Good to know

1

There is no cafe or seating area in the store.

2

Parking is available nearby, including street parking.

3

There is only one unisex bathroom, which can get crowded.

15
Emporium Arcade Bar image 1

Large bar filled with classic arcade games and pinball machines creates a nostalgic vibe. Lighting is cute and seating includes picnic-style tables with an overflow area. Atmosphere stays lively but chill, with good music and a decent dance floor.

A wide selection of arcade games creates a nostalgic and lively atmosphere. Friendly staff enhance the experience, making it a fun and affordable spot for events or casual hangouts.

Lively atmosphere with a vintage tavern vibe and throwback arcade games creates a cool spot to hang out. Good music and cool events add to the relaxed, nostalgic feel.

People are saying

"It's a fun spot to hang out with friends and play some arcades."

"They have a great selection of craft beers."

"The arcade games here are so fun, a great mix of classic and modern."

Good to know

1

You can bring your own food because they do not serve food.

2

Getting in is free, unless attending the Rage party, which costs $10.

3

Everyone is carded at the door, so have your ID ready.

Discover more

West Town, Chicago

Area guide
Loading Map...